A simple, no-fuss manicure fit for an A-lister model? Nailed it!
Bright and bold nails may have their place, but one of this season’s hottest trends is the “no-nicure” – a simple, chic and understated manicure loved by the likes of model Hailey Bieber.
Utilising pale pink and nude shades, the finish is even more subtle than the classic French manicure, highlighting the natural shape and colour of your nails, yet it’s a far more high maintenance look that you might think.
Here, nail expert Lynn Mason, from Swiss nail care brand Mavala, shares how to nail the trend in five easy steps.
Cuticles
“First, take extra care around the cuticle area”, explained Mason.“if you’re too heavy handed, the nails will feel stressed and result in white spots, ridges or weakness.
“Apply Mavala’s Cutcile Remover (£12.60, lookfantastic.com) around the area, wait a few minutes for the product to work, then gently push back the cuticles with a stick wrapped in cotton wool.”
Hydration
Mason continued:“hydration is key for this look. Proper hydration allows polish to last longer, and keeps the nails healthy underneath.
“Before bed each night, apply cuticle oil to the skin and nail area so that while
your body regenerates, the oil can penetrate into the deeper layers of the nail for a moisture boost. Massaging the
formula into the nail daily will make the cuticle area look and feel better, and the massage movement helps to stimulate blood and nutrients to the area, improving the growth and health of your nails, too.”
Scrub
“Just as you would do to the skin on your face, you need to exfoliate the skin around your nails and hands,” said Mason.
“Use an exfoliating hand scrub at least once a week after shaping your nails, gently massaging the product for 20 seconds per finger. Rinse with warm water to reveal perfectly polished hands”
Base
Mason said:“you should never ever skip a base coat on your
nails. A good base coat will protect the nails and double the staying power of your polish, as a protective base prevents pigments in the polish coming into direct contact with your nail plate.”
Polish
“For the minimalist manicure look, it’s best to do just one single coat of sheer polish,” added Mason.“mavala’s Riga shade, for example, is just sheer enough for the whites of your tips to show through, providing that oh-so chic ‘no-nicure’.
“Choose either a shiny, matte, fast-drying or volumising topcoat to prevent flaking, smudging, and prolong colour.”
As told to Alice Hinds